According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupational hearing loss is the most commonly recorded occupational illness in manufacturing. 3M is committed to reducing workplace exposure to hazardous noise with its E-A-Rfit Validation System, a quantitative hearing protector fit-test. The system features a new software upgrade, an expanded portfolio of probed earplugs for testing, and easy-to-use training materials.

The E-A-Rfit Validation System assists in achieving optimal fit through hearing protector selection and employee training. In less than 8 seconds per ear, the system generates a personal attenuation rating that indicates a worker’s noise reduction for a given fitting and hearing protector.

Unlike other systems that rely on subjective responses to test signals, the 3M in-the-ear testing procedure leverages proprietary algorithms to analyze sound levels in the ear when the earplugs are worn. This helps reduce test variability related to background noise in the test room and any existing hearing loss of the workers being tested.

A performance outcome screen then displays the personal attenuation rating along with a pass/fail indication for the worker’s noise exposure level. The system helps ensure proper use of the devices and identifies the earplug models offering the best protection, such as the 3M E-A-R Classic earplugs and easy-to-use, push-to-fit earplugs, such as E-A-R Push-Ins.

The E-A-Rfit Validation System includes all the hardware and accessories needed, including a speaker, software, stand, dual-element microphones, cables and a trial quantity of probed test plugs.

Related Statistics:

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupational hearing loss is the most commonly recorded occupational illness in manufacturing (17,700 cases out of 59,100 cases), accounting for one out of every nine recordable illnesses. More than 72 percent of these occur among workers in manufacturing.

In the United States, an estimated $242 million is spent annually on worker’s compensation for hearing loss disability. NIOSH recommends removing hazardous noise from the workplace whenever possible, and using hearing protectors in those situations where dangerous noise exposures have not yet been controlled or eliminated.

OSHA sets legal limits on noise exposure in the workplace. These limits are based on a worker’s time-weighted average over an 8-hour day. With noise, OSHA’s permissible exposure limit is 90 decibels (dBA) for an 8-hour day. When workers’ noise exposure exceeds 90 dBA, hearing protection must be worn.